Bulk Carrier Owner Fined After Ignoring AMSA Safety Order

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has achieved a significant legal victory, as the Gladstone Magistrates Court imposed a fine of AUD $63,000 on Universal Shipping Alliance Ltd. The penalty stems from the company’s failure to adhere to a safety order concerning the Liberia-flagged bulk carrier KMAX Leader, which reported engine room vibrations upon entering the Port of Gladstone in October 2023.

Safety Concerns and Legal Action

The KMAX Leader arrived at the port with serious propulsion issues, initially claiming repairs would take 8-10 days. However, despite extensive work conducted in November 2023, the problems persisted. In light of the approaching cyclone season, AMSA issued a written order demanding a towage and fault rectification plan. This action was taken due to the potential risks posed by a disabled vessel near the Great Barrier Reef, a critical ecological area.

AMSA’s requests for compliance were met with silence from both the vessel’s captain and its Australian agent. AMSA Executive Director Operations Michael Drake expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “In this case, with a cyclone bearing down on the port, the consequences of not engaging a towage vessel to move the vessel out of the port could have been catastrophic.” The urgency of the situation was underscored by the potential threat to both the vessel’s crew and the surrounding community.

Ultimately, the KMAX Leader was towed from Australian waters in February 2024, following AMSA’s intervention. The vessel now faces a six-month ban from Australian ports, reinforcing the authority’s commitment to maritime safety.

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AMSA’s Commitment to Maritime Safety

This case serves as a critical reminder of AMSA’s proactive enforcement role in maritime safety. During the 2023-24 financial year, the authority issued 57 directions related to safety breaches, mechanical deficiencies, and maritime labor issues. Drake reiterated AMSA’s unwavering stance on safety compliance, stating, “We will not compromise on the safety of vessels and crew, or any potential threat to the community or environment.”

The fine against Universal Shipping Alliance Ltd. highlights the importance of adhering to safety regulations in the maritime industry. As the cyclone season approaches, AMSA’s vigilance in enforcing safety measures is crucial to preventing potential disasters at sea. The authority’s actions reflect a broader commitment to protecting both maritime workers and the delicate ecosystems surrounding Australia’s coastlines.